Base of thumb osteoarthritis in UK interface services-a cohort and survey-based study to assess current practice.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Base of thumb OA (BTOA) is a common age-related disease that has a significant negative impact on quality of life, while little is known about the structure and pathways of interface services. Our aim was to assess disease burden, referral pathways, service structure and management pathways in UK interface services.

Methods

A structured questionnaire was carried out with a participating clinician at each centre to detail the local guidelines and management of BTOA. Five patients referred with BTOA were prospectively identified in each of 32 UK interface centres.

Results

Most centres (72%) had a local guideline and a standardized treatment regime consisting of education (100%), joint protection (100%), range of motion exercises (84%), strengthening exercises

SUBMITTER: Dean BJF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8522135 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature